New Delhi World Book Fair
OngoingThe world’s largest B2C book fair is back! This January, the literary world descends upon the iconic Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan. Whether you are a dedicated bibliophile, a student, or looking for a family outing, the 53rd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) offers an unforgettable journey through books, culture, and technology.
In a historic first for 2026, the National Book Trust has announced completely free entry for all visitors to encourage a nationwide reading culture!
Essential Visitor Guide
| Detail | Official 2026 Information |
|---|---|
| Dates | January 10 to January 18, 2026 |
| General Timings | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Location | Halls 2–6, Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi |
| Nearest Metro | Supreme Court Station (Blue Line) — Use Gate No. 3 |
| Entry Pricing | FREE for all visitors |
2026 Highlights: What’s New?
- Theme Pavilion: Valour & Wisdom @75: This year’s core narrative pays tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. Explore an immersive 1,000 sq. meter pavilion featuring over 500 books on military history, alongside life-sized replicas of the Arjun Tank, INS Vikrant, and LCA Tejas.
- Global Literary Hub: Meet over 1,000 publishers from 35+ countries. The State of Qatar is the Guest of Honour, and Spain is the Focus Country, bringing a vibrant mix of international authors and cultural traditions.
- Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya: Experience the future of reading at the digital library zone. Get instant access to over 6,000 free eBooks across 23+ languages via digital kiosks and QR-code downloads.
- Kidz Express (Hall 6): A dedicated paradise for young readers! Featuring storytelling sessions, theatre workshops, and the Child Authors’ Corner, it’s the perfect spot to inspire the next generation of writers.
- Festival of Festivals 3.0: A "melting pot" of India’s leading literary platforms. Host to over 600 sessions and 1,000 speakers, including celebrities like Piyush Mishra, Smriti Irani, and Ricky Kej.
Pro-Tips for Your Visit
- Seamless Transit: Parking at Bharat Mandapam is extremely limited. We highly recommend using the Delhi Metro. From Supreme Court Station (Gate 3), head to Gate No. 10 of the venue, where free shuttle vans will take you directly to the hall entrances.
- Author Interactions: Check the daily schedule for Lekhak Manch and the Authors’ Corner. These are the best spots for live book launches and one-on-one dialogues with your favorite writers.
- Evening Cultural Shows: Don't leave as soon as you finish shopping! Every evening features performances by Armed Forces bands, folk musicians, and poetry recitals from the Rekhta Foundation.
- The "Military" Photo-Op: If you want a clear shot with the INS Vikrant or Arjun Tank replicas, try to visit the Theme Pavilion before 1:00 PM to avoid the heavy evening crowds.
- Sturdy Bags & Shoes: You will likely walk several kilometers across Halls 2–6. Wear comfortable sneakers and bring a backpack or a trolley bag—you’ll definitely need it for your book haul!
